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The Seven Words #1
The Sorcerer's Bane
Light and dark battle for the soul of six-year old Prince Rayne, heir to the throne of all Ochen and prophesied Light Bringer of the One. Kidnapped, his memories and voice blocked, claimed as a slave, and given the name Wren, he is raised as an assassin.
Sigmund, powerful ancient sorcerer and enemy of the One, plans to frustrate the prophecy by using the young prince to assassinate his own parents. With the death of the Light Bringer and the failure of the prophecy, Sigmund and his demonic colleagues will be free to bring darkness to all seven worlds of Ochen. But what the sorcerer fails to realize is that the One has already claimed the boy, placing within his spirit a glowing ember of light, and giving him support in a world of abuse and violence.
The Seven Words fantasy series, though set in a far distant future, is a sword and sorcery tale that explores the working out of prophecy through themes of forgiveness, trust, and courage.
Sigmund, powerful ancient sorcerer and enemy of the One, plans to frustrate the prophecy by using the young prince to assassinate his own parents. With the death of the Light Bringer and the failure of the prophecy, Sigmund and his demonic colleagues will be free to bring darkness to all seven worlds of Ochen. But what the sorcerer fails to realize is that the One has already claimed the boy, placing within his spirit a glowing ember of light, and giving him support in a world of abuse and violence.
The Seven Words fantasy series, though set in a far distant future, is a sword and sorcery tale that explores the working out of prophecy through themes of forgiveness, trust, and courage.
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First published February 16, 2018
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About the author
C.S. Wachter
10 books106 followersI started out as a reader … but then, I guess most writers start that way.
Enter: Chris as author!
I am a sixty-something mother of three amazing sons, grandmother of one cute little grandson and a pretty as a princess granddaughter. I have been married to the same absolutely amazingly patient man for nearly forty years.
I spend my days obsessively writing. (Wow, I really do!) And I have been known to spend way too much time gaming on a borrowed X-box.
A degree in Performing Arts and English Education from Rowan University, a job as a professional proofreader, and more than fifty-years of experience as a voracious reader of multiple genres (most especially fantasy), honed by a level of maturity I didn’t possess when I was in my twenties, have prepared me to finally write what I have always loved, fantasy (specifically Christian Fantasy).
I love living in rural Lancaster County, PA and if I’m not writing, I’m reading, walking my dog, working on counted cross stitch, or spending time with family and friends.
Enter: Chris as author!
I am a sixty-something mother of three amazing sons, grandmother of one cute little grandson and a pretty as a princess granddaughter. I have been married to the same absolutely amazingly patient man for nearly forty years.
I spend my days obsessively writing. (Wow, I really do!) And I have been known to spend way too much time gaming on a borrowed X-box.
A degree in Performing Arts and English Education from Rowan University, a job as a professional proofreader, and more than fifty-years of experience as a voracious reader of multiple genres (most especially fantasy), honed by a level of maturity I didn’t possess when I was in my twenties, have prepared me to finally write what I have always loved, fantasy (specifically Christian Fantasy).
I love living in rural Lancaster County, PA and if I’m not writing, I’m reading, walking my dog, working on counted cross stitch, or spending time with family and friends.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
June 8, 2018
I'm real glad I didn't get the chance to read the Sorcerer's Bane 3 years ago, because if I had I would have never written my own book. The inspiration of writing my own novel was because I couldn't find any Christian fiction that was exciting, engaging, and truly captivating - so I wrote my own. Well, The Sorcerer's Bane by C.S. Wachter is all that and more. Honestly I wasn't expecting to like this book as much as I did, but it was a great read with solid, original characters and fabulous worldbuilding.
The Sorcerer's Bane is about a young lad named Rayne who was kidnapped by an evil sorcerer named Sigmund. Sigmund captures him because Rayne is to be the prophecied Lightbringer, the predestined one to take the One's message and power and spread it to the 7 worlds of Ochen. Sigmund captured him, renamed him Wren, and planned to raise him as an assassin to kill Wren's parents who had humiliated Sigmund by killing his own daughter, a witch of some sort. The story follows Wren and him discovering his destiny while also escaping his rough life as slave.
Major Positives:
- The characters. It's very rare these days I find fantasy characters I actually find unique or captivating. Everyone makes quirky or cool characters, sure, but most just fall into age-old archetypes with new clothes. Wachter's characters, though some are cliche for sure, really felt fresh and had a sort of life to them. She didn't ham up certain characters, she didn't try to shove HOW COOL this guy is in your face, she honestly just let you live with a bunch of characters that had some true breath. Rayne/Wren was a great lead with a nice arc, although his character didn't interest me the most. I personally enjoyed Anna and Sashi the most. Some character's dialogue kind of got old, like Sashi's brother, but overall little complaints. Sigmund and his disgusting lackey also made for some great villains.
- Worldbuilding. She put in some serious effort and thought. There are even like 20 maps in the beginning of the novel, which is pretty overbearing and excessive, honestly, but it showcased her love for her universe. The magic, overall, made sense, and nothing felt out of left field.
- The dialogue was pretty stellar. Especially from the villains.
- The flow and pacing felt spot on. This is rare for any fantasy novel.
- The Christian messages were expertly paralleled. It isn't an allegory per say, but is more of a clear reflection of the role of Christ and how God has a clear plan for salvation for His people. The role of Rayne as Lightbringer and what that means does a good job of depicting a clear Christian worldview through an exciting new fantasy lens.
- The prose is clear, fun, and engaging after the first 50 or so pages.
Major Negatives:
- I just didn't click with the action sequences. Maybe it was just me, but I felt they just didn't have the energy the rest of her novel had.
- The ending. I don't agree with many of the other reviewers who say it had a "cliffhanger" ending, as I feel this book, for the most part, tells its own story. But the ending really began to drag and it got to the point where I was like "Okay, this is losing its crescendo, when does this wrap up?" I think it could have simply ended on a stronger note.
- Not gonna lie, the prose in the first 50 pages felt pretty pretentious. There were some words used that I don't think even expert linguists would touched. So many times I thought "Okay, does using that word really make this scene better? How is this word better than its simpler, clearer alternative?" It got better as the story went on though.
I highly recommend The Sorcerer's Bane to anyone. It is an enjoyable, refreshing read that will tug at your heart and have you cheering on the heroes. This story will remind you that hope is always present even when the dark seems overbearing.
The Sorcerer's Bane is about a young lad named Rayne who was kidnapped by an evil sorcerer named Sigmund. Sigmund captures him because Rayne is to be the prophecied Lightbringer, the predestined one to take the One's message and power and spread it to the 7 worlds of Ochen. Sigmund captured him, renamed him Wren, and planned to raise him as an assassin to kill Wren's parents who had humiliated Sigmund by killing his own daughter, a witch of some sort. The story follows Wren and him discovering his destiny while also escaping his rough life as slave.
Major Positives:
- The characters. It's very rare these days I find fantasy characters I actually find unique or captivating. Everyone makes quirky or cool characters, sure, but most just fall into age-old archetypes with new clothes. Wachter's characters, though some are cliche for sure, really felt fresh and had a sort of life to them. She didn't ham up certain characters, she didn't try to shove HOW COOL this guy is in your face, she honestly just let you live with a bunch of characters that had some true breath. Rayne/Wren was a great lead with a nice arc, although his character didn't interest me the most. I personally enjoyed Anna and Sashi the most. Some character's dialogue kind of got old, like Sashi's brother, but overall little complaints. Sigmund and his disgusting lackey also made for some great villains.
- Worldbuilding. She put in some serious effort and thought. There are even like 20 maps in the beginning of the novel, which is pretty overbearing and excessive, honestly, but it showcased her love for her universe. The magic, overall, made sense, and nothing felt out of left field.
- The dialogue was pretty stellar. Especially from the villains.
- The flow and pacing felt spot on. This is rare for any fantasy novel.
- The Christian messages were expertly paralleled. It isn't an allegory per say, but is more of a clear reflection of the role of Christ and how God has a clear plan for salvation for His people. The role of Rayne as Lightbringer and what that means does a good job of depicting a clear Christian worldview through an exciting new fantasy lens.
- The prose is clear, fun, and engaging after the first 50 or so pages.
Major Negatives:
- I just didn't click with the action sequences. Maybe it was just me, but I felt they just didn't have the energy the rest of her novel had.
- The ending. I don't agree with many of the other reviewers who say it had a "cliffhanger" ending, as I feel this book, for the most part, tells its own story. But the ending really began to drag and it got to the point where I was like "Okay, this is losing its crescendo, when does this wrap up?" I think it could have simply ended on a stronger note.
- Not gonna lie, the prose in the first 50 pages felt pretty pretentious. There were some words used that I don't think even expert linguists would touched. So many times I thought "Okay, does using that word really make this scene better? How is this word better than its simpler, clearer alternative?" It got better as the story went on though.
I highly recommend The Sorcerer's Bane to anyone. It is an enjoyable, refreshing read that will tug at your heart and have you cheering on the heroes. This story will remind you that hope is always present even when the dark seems overbearing.
April 15, 2020
“The Sorcerer’s Bane” (Book One of the "Seven Words Series") by C.S. Wachter is an epic fantasy-sci fi novel with medieval underpinnings set within a planetary system of seven planets. These planets are joined together by “skips” (portals allowing travel between the worlds).
When 6-year-old Prince Rayne, son of the planetary system’s monarchy, is kidnapped by an evil sorcerer Sigmund, the boy begins a harrowing journey through both the trauma of darkness and the slow-opening of his eyes to his identity. Wachter pulls few punches in displaying the depths of darkness and its ruinous effects upon Rayne, renamed Wren by Sigmund. The journey is relentless, but there are moments of light-heartedness, especially later in the novel, that makes the novel a wonder.
C.S. Wachter’s writing craft is superb and draws the reader into the plight of Rayne/Wren. The worldbuilding is also masterfully done—with characters that resonate and feel authentic. There were key moments when tears brimmed my eyes—the characters’ interplay ringing true and heart-touching!
Within the novel are explorations of humanity within the framework of a world, like our own, that questions the reality of the One and of prophecies related to a Light Bearer who will restore truth in the One. The author’s manner in presenting such is subtle and well done.
I believe many readers will enjoy this novel and use it to springboard into the rest of the "Seven Words Series".
MY PERSONAL RATINGS:
**Story Originality (How creative was the concept from page one onwards?): 4/5 (A straightforward story of one forced to survive a seemingly hopeless journey. Masterfully told.)
**Story Inventiveness (How surprised was I by the flow of the plot? Any twists?): 3.5/5 (It flowed in a linear fashion with a few flashbacks later. The plight of the main character is the novel’s draw—and the battle between good within him and evil within him, and revelations regarding his identity.)
**Characters (How real and how drawn was I to the story’s characters?): 5/5 (Characters are this novel’s main strength.)
**Descriptive Power (How well did the author control description, dialogue, etc?): 4.50/5 (Some extra long dialogues from characters—but still rang true. Wachter’s descriptive power is incredible! As far as writing craft, thie novel is immersive.)
**True to Scripture (Were all elements true to Scripture’s worldview?): 5/5 (Nothing contradictory to Scripture.)
**Fictive Dream Strength (How much was I immersed into the novel, wanting to read page after page?): 3/5 (The last quarter sets up the rest of the book series which, for me, was necessary but slowed the flow.)
**Proofreading (How well was the book proofread (typos, etc): 5/5
**Cinematic Flare (How strong were key scenes (that I could easily see as a motion picture): 5/5 (I could see this being a film or a series on TV. Could be an amazing series to watch!)
**Overall Satisfaction (What was my overall feeling/enjoyment level after reading novel? Did I want it to end?): 4/5 (It stretched a bit long the last quarter, but was satisfying overall.)
OVERALL RATING: 4/5 (But could've been 5/5 with a stronger ending.)
The "Seven Words Series" consists of "The Sorcerer's Bane", "The Light Arises", "The Light Unbound", "The Deceit of Darkness", and a sequel to the series, "A Weight of Reckoning." There is also a ahort story by Wachter, "Demon's Legacy: A Worlds of Ochen Short Story."
I have reviewed "Light Arises" also. It is a worthy successor to the Rayne Saga.
-Sean Elliot Russell
When 6-year-old Prince Rayne, son of the planetary system’s monarchy, is kidnapped by an evil sorcerer Sigmund, the boy begins a harrowing journey through both the trauma of darkness and the slow-opening of his eyes to his identity. Wachter pulls few punches in displaying the depths of darkness and its ruinous effects upon Rayne, renamed Wren by Sigmund. The journey is relentless, but there are moments of light-heartedness, especially later in the novel, that makes the novel a wonder.
C.S. Wachter’s writing craft is superb and draws the reader into the plight of Rayne/Wren. The worldbuilding is also masterfully done—with characters that resonate and feel authentic. There were key moments when tears brimmed my eyes—the characters’ interplay ringing true and heart-touching!
Within the novel are explorations of humanity within the framework of a world, like our own, that questions the reality of the One and of prophecies related to a Light Bearer who will restore truth in the One. The author’s manner in presenting such is subtle and well done.
I believe many readers will enjoy this novel and use it to springboard into the rest of the "Seven Words Series".
MY PERSONAL RATINGS:
**Story Originality (How creative was the concept from page one onwards?): 4/5 (A straightforward story of one forced to survive a seemingly hopeless journey. Masterfully told.)
**Story Inventiveness (How surprised was I by the flow of the plot? Any twists?): 3.5/5 (It flowed in a linear fashion with a few flashbacks later. The plight of the main character is the novel’s draw—and the battle between good within him and evil within him, and revelations regarding his identity.)
**Characters (How real and how drawn was I to the story’s characters?): 5/5 (Characters are this novel’s main strength.)
**Descriptive Power (How well did the author control description, dialogue, etc?): 4.50/5 (Some extra long dialogues from characters—but still rang true. Wachter’s descriptive power is incredible! As far as writing craft, thie novel is immersive.)
**True to Scripture (Were all elements true to Scripture’s worldview?): 5/5 (Nothing contradictory to Scripture.)
**Fictive Dream Strength (How much was I immersed into the novel, wanting to read page after page?): 3/5 (The last quarter sets up the rest of the book series which, for me, was necessary but slowed the flow.)
**Proofreading (How well was the book proofread (typos, etc): 5/5
**Cinematic Flare (How strong were key scenes (that I could easily see as a motion picture): 5/5 (I could see this being a film or a series on TV. Could be an amazing series to watch!)
**Overall Satisfaction (What was my overall feeling/enjoyment level after reading novel? Did I want it to end?): 4/5 (It stretched a bit long the last quarter, but was satisfying overall.)
OVERALL RATING: 4/5 (But could've been 5/5 with a stronger ending.)
The "Seven Words Series" consists of "The Sorcerer's Bane", "The Light Arises", "The Light Unbound", "The Deceit of Darkness", and a sequel to the series, "A Weight of Reckoning." There is also a ahort story by Wachter, "Demon's Legacy: A Worlds of Ochen Short Story."
I have reviewed "Light Arises" also. It is a worthy successor to the Rayne Saga.
-Sean Elliot Russell
June 1, 2020
Amazing!!!!!!! Something new for me.
First of all this book and her author had become one of my favorites and I dedicate the best compliment that I know for a book: I HAVE TO READ IT AGAIN!.
If you follow my reviews and you have a similar taste for books: you should read it!it is deep, thrilling, interesting, tender, full of feminine genius, you will suffer and you will grow.
My most heartfelt congratulations to the author and my most sincere gratitude for being bold and putting faith into action.
It is not easy to do a good review tipping in the cellphone. (I don’t have a computer.)
First of all this book and her author had become one of my favorites and I dedicate the best compliment that I know for a book: I HAVE TO READ IT AGAIN!.
If you follow my reviews and you have a similar taste for books: you should read it!it is deep, thrilling, interesting, tender, full of feminine genius, you will suffer and you will grow.
My most heartfelt congratulations to the author and my most sincere gratitude for being bold and putting faith into action.
It is not easy to do a good review tipping in the cellphone. (I don’t have a computer.)
February 21, 2019
I read the second book first, so it was definitely very interesting to see where everyone started- and realize how much they had to grow before becoming the characters of the sequel. That said, this book was a very different tone from the other. In the sequel, he was a young man who was still battling demons from the past, but he was also a prince pursuing his calling. This was the tale of a little boy who was kidnapped, abused, and forced to do horrible things by even more horrible people, and I'm not normally that 'trigger-able,' but this tale did make me sick to my stomach at some parts. Tragically, though, these kinds of things do happen in real life, and the author did a good job at displaying evil as it was, and then showing how some way, somehow, light overcame it. Would recommend this book to lovers of high fantasy- who have strong stomachs.
I received a copy of this book from the authors, but was not required to write a favorable review.
I received a copy of this book from the authors, but was not required to write a favorable review.
May 18, 2020
After reading this book, I want to read the rest of the story. There is more to the world that I want to explore. I agree with some of the other reviewers that this was not a cliff-hanger ending but wrapped things up well, while being open ended enough for more of a story in the future. I did very much enjoy reading Sorcerer’s Bane.
For the majority of the book I was very sad, the development of Rayne’s/Wren’s character and his life was very painful to read. But that also tells me the author did their job expressing what the character was going through, making me feel something too.
The theme and development of someone coming from depravity into royalty rang in my heart. This was a beautiful depiction of how Christ takes the sinner and turns him into a son/daughter wiping out the old life like it never exsited and given them a new identity. Rayne went through the same change, struggling with evil, reconciling who he was to who he is, and accepting his place in his new world. Another theme was how the One works in and through His people. There was a great paradox between good and evil; how man has to battle with that within himself. As Rayne learns more about following the One he started to feel certain feelings. This was very close to how the Holy Spirit works in the lives of believers. I enjoyed the themes of this story.
The character that stuck with me the most was Ponce. He was more of a villain than his Master Segmond. I loathed his and his treatment of such a young boy. That also tells me the author did a good job, I truly loathed him by the end.
The plot stayed steady for the whole book. I do believe that there was a great climax and then the last 100 pages just lost all the momentum. It didn’t flow with the rest of the story. Like it would have been better at the beginning of another book.
C.S. Wathcer’s world building was very unique for me. I liked the idea of many worlds connected only through what seemed like teleportation. It made for more distinction among the places she was talking about. I am looking forward to the other worlds and learning about the people groups who inhabit them. Although this story was more about character development the world building was very good. It was easy to understand.
For the majority of the book I was very sad, the development of Rayne’s/Wren’s character and his life was very painful to read. But that also tells me the author did their job expressing what the character was going through, making me feel something too.
The theme and development of someone coming from depravity into royalty rang in my heart. This was a beautiful depiction of how Christ takes the sinner and turns him into a son/daughter wiping out the old life like it never exsited and given them a new identity. Rayne went through the same change, struggling with evil, reconciling who he was to who he is, and accepting his place in his new world. Another theme was how the One works in and through His people. There was a great paradox between good and evil; how man has to battle with that within himself. As Rayne learns more about following the One he started to feel certain feelings. This was very close to how the Holy Spirit works in the lives of believers. I enjoyed the themes of this story.
The character that stuck with me the most was Ponce. He was more of a villain than his Master Segmond. I loathed his and his treatment of such a young boy. That also tells me the author did a good job, I truly loathed him by the end.
The plot stayed steady for the whole book. I do believe that there was a great climax and then the last 100 pages just lost all the momentum. It didn’t flow with the rest of the story. Like it would have been better at the beginning of another book.
C.S. Wathcer’s world building was very unique for me. I liked the idea of many worlds connected only through what seemed like teleportation. It made for more distinction among the places she was talking about. I am looking forward to the other worlds and learning about the people groups who inhabit them. Although this story was more about character development the world building was very good. It was easy to understand.
March 20, 2018
The Sorcerer’s Bane by C. S. Wachter, a debut novel by a debut writer. I have to say that this is one of the few fantasy books I have read since reading the Narnia series by C. S. Lewis and the Lord of the Rings series by J. R. R. Tolkien. I loved the Narnia series, but didn’t really enjoy much of the Lord of the Rings, except for a some of the characters. You see, as a reader, I need an interesting plot that keeps things moving, but more importantly to me are the characters — being able to sympathize or empathize with them, feeling their feelings. I need to care about and identify with the characters, and I need to want to cheer them on and need to know how things will turn out for them.
I was introduced to the fantasy genre later in life — in other words, I was already out of my twenties, and I have always been an avid reader of any genre of story that includes some romance as part of the main story line, so fantasy has never really been my go-to read.
However, I have come to have an appreciation for and understanding of good fantasy books, especially Christian Fantasy books because they have a true good versus evil story line that points to the true hope for a happy ending.
Well, imagine my surprise, when I read The Sorcerer’s Bane and found myself quickly entrenched in the worst kind of evil — the enslavement and abuse of a child. Yet, the child grabbed my attention from the start, and held my attention fast so that I was unable to put the book down, even when it made me cringe and flinch, and it disgusted me sometimes.
So, what was it that kept me reading as I fought past these feelings? It was the characters — the boy who had an incredible resolve for one so young, the teacher who desired to teach the boy more than just reading, writing, and arithmetic, the kind young lady who ministered to the boy’s injuries. Even some of the characters that were part of the evil the boy dealt with held my attention because I had a glimmer of something more than the evil they presented that made me hope they may change.
C. S. Wachter has a way of weaving a tale that drags her character through hell but that always exhibits a glimmer of hope and light for something better to come. Even at the end, the knowledge and hope of more to come whets my appetite for the next book in the series of “The Seven Words” by C. S. Wachter.
So, if you love a good tale of good versus evil, I recommend The Sorcerer’s Bane to you, but only if you are a young adult or adult, as some of the violence and situations in the book may be too upsetting to children.
I was introduced to the fantasy genre later in life — in other words, I was already out of my twenties, and I have always been an avid reader of any genre of story that includes some romance as part of the main story line, so fantasy has never really been my go-to read.
However, I have come to have an appreciation for and understanding of good fantasy books, especially Christian Fantasy books because they have a true good versus evil story line that points to the true hope for a happy ending.
Well, imagine my surprise, when I read The Sorcerer’s Bane and found myself quickly entrenched in the worst kind of evil — the enslavement and abuse of a child. Yet, the child grabbed my attention from the start, and held my attention fast so that I was unable to put the book down, even when it made me cringe and flinch, and it disgusted me sometimes.
So, what was it that kept me reading as I fought past these feelings? It was the characters — the boy who had an incredible resolve for one so young, the teacher who desired to teach the boy more than just reading, writing, and arithmetic, the kind young lady who ministered to the boy’s injuries. Even some of the characters that were part of the evil the boy dealt with held my attention because I had a glimmer of something more than the evil they presented that made me hope they may change.
C. S. Wachter has a way of weaving a tale that drags her character through hell but that always exhibits a glimmer of hope and light for something better to come. Even at the end, the knowledge and hope of more to come whets my appetite for the next book in the series of “The Seven Words” by C. S. Wachter.
So, if you love a good tale of good versus evil, I recommend The Sorcerer’s Bane to you, but only if you are a young adult or adult, as some of the violence and situations in the book may be too upsetting to children.
February 18, 2020
Sorcerer's Bane is the first book in the Seven Swords. It is about a young prince, Rayne, who is kidnapped and trained as an assassin. His purpose: kill the king and queen. Rayne is given the name 'Wren' so that people do not expect him to be the prince. He goes through painful struggles, lessons, and training until he is ready for his task. There is a permanent battle inside him between darkness and light (which is where the main themes of Christianity can be seen). But Wren's ultimate question, in the end, is whether or not he's up to the task of assassinating the king and queen, his parents.
I loved this book! There are Christian themes in it (with several mentionings of 'the One' as God). However, even with this theme, the book does not circulate so primarily on Christianity that someone who's not a Christian would feel like they are being talked down to. I loved the characters, and C.S Wachter did an incredible job with their developments. As to be expected, there is some violence and a few gritty scenes. But the author handled them well, and they are balanced well with other, less violent scenes. There is a slow development at the beginning of the story, but it makes the ending all the more satisfying.
I recommend this book to any who enjoy fantasy, though I would suggest you have a strong stomach for some of the scenes. I look forward to reading the next books!
I loved this book! There are Christian themes in it (with several mentionings of 'the One' as God). However, even with this theme, the book does not circulate so primarily on Christianity that someone who's not a Christian would feel like they are being talked down to. I loved the characters, and C.S Wachter did an incredible job with their developments. As to be expected, there is some violence and a few gritty scenes. But the author handled them well, and they are balanced well with other, less violent scenes. There is a slow development at the beginning of the story, but it makes the ending all the more satisfying.
I recommend this book to any who enjoy fantasy, though I would suggest you have a strong stomach for some of the scenes. I look forward to reading the next books!
August 6, 2018
C. S. Wachter's The Sorcerer's Bane is the first in the series, a dark epic fantasy on a future world. Prince Rayne is abducted on his 6th birthday by the Sorcerer Sigmund, who steals his memory and voice & ensures he is raised to be a master assassin in a plot to kill his parents and wipe out the blessed line of the Ochen royals.
There was a lot I liked about this book. I like the cover and the first couple of chapters were gripping, intriguing, even heart-stopping. I enjoyed the setting, the world of Ochen - seven (smallish?) planets connected by 'skipping' through portals and ruled by a constitutional monarchy with plenty of intrigue, political manoeuvring and subterfuge and possibly different ethncities (with Shan). Rayne (or Wren as Sigmund names him) is a conflicted, flaw but ultimately likable character who fights against the Sigmund's overwhelming power and purposes. Warren, Anne and Thorvin are great characters with different strengths and weaknesses. The mounting tension of whether Rayne-Wren would be able to resist the Sorcerer's powerful magic, lies, and appalling treatment or whether he would succumb to the horrific plan imposed upon him, kept me reading & I was rewarded with an thrilling finale as the different forces played out in an epic inner battle. An additional layer was added by the old prophecy of the One's Lightbearer and seven scrolls (one each for the planets) and I like the integration of spiritual beliefs within the story.
Despite enjoying the story, I didn't always enjoy the telling of it. I found the story often dragged between the first few exciting chapters and to about the middle of the book and then, after the climax that the whole book had been building up to at that point, with what felt the longish epilogue, (even when I realised that it finding the first scroll was an important plot point). In particular the pages-long speeches by so many of the characters, with even minor ones have to explain, explain, explain (leaving nothing to the imagination, nothing implied in subtext), and with long slabs of narrative and backstory, and frequent repetition of scenes (sometimes several times - as it happened, in a characters recollections and thoughts or decisions, and retold to other characters, not necessarily in that order (with one major event skipped over and then told in backstory)), all of this came close to driving me to skimming whole chapters. For my tastes, the book would have been far more enjoyable with judicious pruning.
That said, I did like the story and characters and the premise. I am planning on reading the next in the series, The Light Arises.
There was a lot I liked about this book. I like the cover and the first couple of chapters were gripping, intriguing, even heart-stopping. I enjoyed the setting, the world of Ochen - seven (smallish?) planets connected by 'skipping' through portals and ruled by a constitutional monarchy with plenty of intrigue, political manoeuvring and subterfuge and possibly different ethncities (with Shan). Rayne (or Wren as Sigmund names him) is a conflicted, flaw but ultimately likable character who fights against the Sigmund's overwhelming power and purposes. Warren, Anne and Thorvin are great characters with different strengths and weaknesses. The mounting tension of whether Rayne-Wren would be able to resist the Sorcerer's powerful magic, lies, and appalling treatment or whether he would succumb to the horrific plan imposed upon him, kept me reading & I was rewarded with an thrilling finale as the different forces played out in an epic inner battle. An additional layer was added by the old prophecy of the One's Lightbearer and seven scrolls (one each for the planets) and I like the integration of spiritual beliefs within the story.
Despite enjoying the story, I didn't always enjoy the telling of it. I found the story often dragged between the first few exciting chapters and to about the middle of the book and then, after the climax that the whole book had been building up to at that point, with what felt the longish epilogue, (even when I realised that it finding the first scroll was an important plot point). In particular the pages-long speeches by so many of the characters, with even minor ones have to explain, explain, explain (leaving nothing to the imagination, nothing implied in subtext), and with long slabs of narrative and backstory, and frequent repetition of scenes (sometimes several times - as it happened, in a characters recollections and thoughts or decisions, and retold to other characters, not necessarily in that order (with one major event skipped over and then told in backstory)), all of this came close to driving me to skimming whole chapters. For my tastes, the book would have been far more enjoyable with judicious pruning.
That said, I did like the story and characters and the premise. I am planning on reading the next in the series, The Light Arises.
July 20, 2019
The Sorcerer's Bane, by C. S. Watcher, is a well written fantasy set in a world of six planets and one moon. It is written mostly from the point of view from the young protagonist and characters are developed mostly through his eyes. Narration is judiciously used to allow the reader to understand relationships, purpose and motivation behind character actions, however, these narratives did not bog down plot progession at all. Ms. Watcher developed her world well without sacrificing momentum of plot. The story has a spiritual theme that promises to be a Christian message as it unfolds. I appreciate the endurance of the young hero made possible by trusting in the 'One'. Ms.Watcher has no qualms about making evil very evil and yet, illustrating a dynamic struggle to overcome that darkness. I also appreciate that the protagonist does not have a miraculous recovery from all that he endured. It is much more interesting and realistic to see the growth of character that overcoming fear and distrust develops. Although, much of the core of this novel is the survival of the main character, I enjoyed how Ms. Watcher is incorporating other themes such as greed being the engine that breeds human injustice and the power that money has over governing officials.
I would warn readers that the first part of the novel was difficult to read through in that a young child endures much suffering and abuse from his captors. As I continued to read through, I could see that the sufferings had purpose. So although the first part of the novel was difficult, by the end of the novel, I was anxious to continue the story and quest of the protagonist. Because of the prolonged suffering endured by the child, I would not suggest this for younger readers. I will say that suffering of children is a real thing in this present world and it behooves us not to turn a blind eye to it. Thank you C. S. Watcher for writing a very thought provoking novel. It was difficult at times, but the story is staying with me and I'll be reading more!
I would warn readers that the first part of the novel was difficult to read through in that a young child endures much suffering and abuse from his captors. As I continued to read through, I could see that the sufferings had purpose. So although the first part of the novel was difficult, by the end of the novel, I was anxious to continue the story and quest of the protagonist. Because of the prolonged suffering endured by the child, I would not suggest this for younger readers. I will say that suffering of children is a real thing in this present world and it behooves us not to turn a blind eye to it. Thank you C. S. Watcher for writing a very thought provoking novel. It was difficult at times, but the story is staying with me and I'll be reading more!
May 9, 2019
This is the tale of a kidnapped prince. It goes to the heart while rending, thumping, warming and tugging the reader along the way. Darkness eventually turns to light, evil to good and despair to hope.
The story centres around Rayne Kierkengaard, the prince of the world of Corylus, only child and heir to the throne of that kingdom. He was a striking, beautiful boy with black hair and violet eyes.
An ancient prophecy existed about him but Sigmund, a wicked sorcerer who wanted revenge on his royal family line, burned the last copy of the scroll. It seemed the prophecy was lost forever.
Sigmund had him kidnapped and implanted with an evil device that stole his speech and memory. The boy was then implanted with false memories of rejection and abandonment.
Rayne became Wren, a little boy robbed of everything – his childhood, identity, speech, memories and family.
His growing years were full of abuse and he was turned into an assassin. Sigmund wanted Wren to kill his own parents, the King and Queen of Corylus on his sixteenth birthday.
In spite of everything and helped by two good people, his mentor Warren and healer Anne, he chose not to be evil and somehow, against all the odds, he managed to develop a noble character.
The book had a timeless feel with a good plot and lots of action. It was obviously written so there can be a sequel or a series but it can be read as a stand-alone book, so we’re not left with an unsatisfying cliff-hanger.
The world building was good, the action was mainly on the world of Corylus, the home world of the Kierkengaard Family line.
Corylus was one of seven planets of the Ochen System. The people travelled between planets through skipping lines – mysterious wormholes and portals which acted as bridges between the worlds. We don’t know if they’re natural or built by an unknown ancient civilisation.
The characters were well developed.
I liked how their God, “The One” was developed. He didn’t intervene to stop the kidnapping but he did come to help Wren or Rayne when it mattered the most, when evil looked ready to triumph over good.
All in all it was a great book. I recommend for those who like fantasy and good verses evil.
The story centres around Rayne Kierkengaard, the prince of the world of Corylus, only child and heir to the throne of that kingdom. He was a striking, beautiful boy with black hair and violet eyes.
An ancient prophecy existed about him but Sigmund, a wicked sorcerer who wanted revenge on his royal family line, burned the last copy of the scroll. It seemed the prophecy was lost forever.
Sigmund had him kidnapped and implanted with an evil device that stole his speech and memory. The boy was then implanted with false memories of rejection and abandonment.
Rayne became Wren, a little boy robbed of everything – his childhood, identity, speech, memories and family.
His growing years were full of abuse and he was turned into an assassin. Sigmund wanted Wren to kill his own parents, the King and Queen of Corylus on his sixteenth birthday.
In spite of everything and helped by two good people, his mentor Warren and healer Anne, he chose not to be evil and somehow, against all the odds, he managed to develop a noble character.
The book had a timeless feel with a good plot and lots of action. It was obviously written so there can be a sequel or a series but it can be read as a stand-alone book, so we’re not left with an unsatisfying cliff-hanger.
The world building was good, the action was mainly on the world of Corylus, the home world of the Kierkengaard Family line.
Corylus was one of seven planets of the Ochen System. The people travelled between planets through skipping lines – mysterious wormholes and portals which acted as bridges between the worlds. We don’t know if they’re natural or built by an unknown ancient civilisation.
The characters were well developed.
I liked how their God, “The One” was developed. He didn’t intervene to stop the kidnapping but he did come to help Wren or Rayne when it mattered the most, when evil looked ready to triumph over good.
All in all it was a great book. I recommend for those who like fantasy and good verses evil.
March 15, 2021
I have just finished The Sorcerer’s Bane by C. S. Wachter. Well, where to start? I really enjoyed the universe the author has created with multiple planets and the ability to skip from one to another. It is a deep and rich book. It is a fantasy setting with sci-fi undertones. It is clear the author is an expert at weaving an intricate web of fantasy themes.
It’s marketed as Christian Fantasy and I can understand why. But I would not necessarily say the book should be held to that label. It read like an epic dark fantasy novel.
I really liked the main character (I’ll just call him Wren) and really felt for him during his peril throughout the book. I will put it out there, Wren has a hard time during most of the book. There are some intense moments that I do not think are suitable for a younger audience. However, I can see what the author is doing and giving the character a detailed backstory that feels likes its leading up to a larger story Arc planned.
The baddy, Sigmund is a perfect villain, and all the supporting characters are fantastic. I loved how they all had very distinct voices which is a credit to the author.
I have one minor criticism, which to be honest is probably down to my own command of the English language. There were times maybe ten or so where I had to go search a word and find out what it meant. I suppose, therefore, it has taught me something!
As a whole, I felt like the book was a great series opener, a true good vs. evil fantasy which was original and bold.
It’s marketed as Christian Fantasy and I can understand why. But I would not necessarily say the book should be held to that label. It read like an epic dark fantasy novel.
I really liked the main character (I’ll just call him Wren) and really felt for him during his peril throughout the book. I will put it out there, Wren has a hard time during most of the book. There are some intense moments that I do not think are suitable for a younger audience. However, I can see what the author is doing and giving the character a detailed backstory that feels likes its leading up to a larger story Arc planned.
The baddy, Sigmund is a perfect villain, and all the supporting characters are fantastic. I loved how they all had very distinct voices which is a credit to the author.
I have one minor criticism, which to be honest is probably down to my own command of the English language. There were times maybe ten or so where I had to go search a word and find out what it meant. I suppose, therefore, it has taught me something!
As a whole, I felt like the book was a great series opener, a true good vs. evil fantasy which was original and bold.
June 27, 2019
The Sorcerer’s Bane by C. S. Wachter is a riveting and powerful novel. It had a little more blood and gore than I personally cared for, but it wasn’t enough to prevent me from finishing the book. It evoked some serious desires within me to protect the boy/young man as he struggled to survive the incredibly difficult circumstances he faced. The main character’s situation seemed impossible and inescapable, but some well-placed bright spots in his life give him reasons to live and survive. The novel is very dark but was balanced by the bright spots to keep it from being too heavy.
Despite the overbearing evil prevalent throughout the storyline, the power of God comes through. It clearly demonstrates God’s all-powerful and omnipresence no matter how bad our circumstances are.
I look forward to reading the next one.
Despite the overbearing evil prevalent throughout the storyline, the power of God comes through. It clearly demonstrates God’s all-powerful and omnipresence no matter how bad our circumstances are.
I look forward to reading the next one.
June 13, 2019
I really enjoyed this book and immediately wanted to read the next instalment when I put it down. The characters are real and well-rounded, the world building detailed and inventive, and the story engaging. It deals with dark issues, and I found the pace slowed towards the end, but I finished the bulk of it in two days, which is a sign of how easily it hooked me in. I would recommend it to anyone who loves fantasy with gritty realism and a strong theme of light overcoming darkness.
November 1, 2019
A very unusual and interesting story , Good With Bad Magic!
I read this, like anxious to open a superb 🎁. Except for the elements that were clearly christian faith dogma! Otherwise I Loved This Book. 😍😍🤔 BUY THIS! 🤗
I read this, like anxious to open a superb 🎁. Except for the elements that were clearly christian faith dogma! Otherwise I Loved This Book. 😍😍🤔 BUY THIS! 🤗
November 3, 2019
Wow, this book! I knew I’d like it after reading the description and reviews, but it was even better than I expected! This author knows how to write a gripping story. I read this every free minute I got, I couldn’t wait to see what would happen next! Such a fun tale. I loved the authors writing style as well, it went perfectly with the story. Definitely recommend this book! I loved every bit of it.
August 10, 2019
CS Wachter doesn’t hesitate to take on difficult themes and story lines in book one of her Seven Words series. A dark sorcerer plots an elaborate revenge on an enemy. An entire nation keeps the memory of a lost child alive. Bitterness, betrayal and love will shape the child’s future, and the future of the world.
June 11, 2021
Regardless of how dark this begins, the light shines through and the beginning of this series compels the reader to keep reading. A Christian fantasy that is worth every bit of time spent. I cannot wait to continue the series.
May 4, 2021
The Sorcerer's Bane is a great introduction to a new world; C.S. Wachter has created a very intricate world to explore.
As this is book 1 of a four-part series, not all answers are given to the reader. However, we find out that an adventure is to be started by our main character, which leads into the following three books. I think this book could technically be considered a prequel to a three-part adventure series, at least that's how I read it.
The use of faith and Christian themes are very heavy throughout this book. I really appreciated the mirroring of the faith within the main character. I can relate to the main character's struggles on a very spiritual level. I believe that gave more meaning to the story for me.
As this is book 1 of a four-part series, not all answers are given to the reader. However, we find out that an adventure is to be started by our main character, which leads into the following three books. I think this book could technically be considered a prequel to a three-part adventure series, at least that's how I read it.
The use of faith and Christian themes are very heavy throughout this book. I really appreciated the mirroring of the faith within the main character. I can relate to the main character's struggles on a very spiritual level. I believe that gave more meaning to the story for me.
March 28, 2019
Christian fantasy’s reach is extended
This book begins very dark, oppressively dark, necessarily dark, and depressing. It’s definitely fiction of a high order. It brings Truth in the midst of a world having horrors which surpass reality. Yet, it feels right and uplifting.
It is fantasy sci-fi. But the science fiction elements are nowhere near hard science. The world is wonderfully built with magic, evil, power, and light. Yes, it feels medieval. Yes, the magic often seems overly oppressive and dark. However, the dark is diminished with overwhelming good and love.
So, the result of the read becomes qualified joy—tempered by the reality of its core—fiction very well done. You’ll like this one.
This book begins very dark, oppressively dark, necessarily dark, and depressing. It’s definitely fiction of a high order. It brings Truth in the midst of a world having horrors which surpass reality. Yet, it feels right and uplifting.
It is fantasy sci-fi. But the science fiction elements are nowhere near hard science. The world is wonderfully built with magic, evil, power, and light. Yes, it feels medieval. Yes, the magic often seems overly oppressive and dark. However, the dark is diminished with overwhelming good and love.
So, the result of the read becomes qualified joy—tempered by the reality of its core—fiction very well done. You’ll like this one.
August 5, 2018
The heart-breaking initial event of this book can’t help but capture the reader’s full attention, as 6-year-old Prince Rayne is kidnapped from his parents and loses both his voice and his memories in servitude to the evil sorcerer Sigmund. Told only that his name is ‘Wren’, he’s subjected to the mindless cruelty of an assassins’ training school. If not for two compassionate adults in the school who secretly take mercy on him, it’s hard to imagine how he could have retained his sanity.
Sigmund’s long-term purpose for Rayne/Wren is fiendishly clever: it is to train him as the ultimate killing machine, who on his 16th birthday will be sent back into the palace where he was born to kill both his parents, King Theodor and Queen Rowena. This will be “a child for a child”, as they had previously executed Sigmund’s daughter.
C. S. Wachter is a born storyteller, and the tale flows smoothly from one event to the next, carrying the reader with it. Her use of English is impeccable—as one would expect from a former professional proofreader. Her characters are well-drawn, not stereotyped, with unexpected depths revealed from time to time. The development of Wren’s character is particularly well done, as one sees the helpless child grow into a formidable young man who despite all the opposing pressures manages to cling to an inner core of selfhood and humanity, refusing to become the mindless tool Sigmund is trying to create.
Throughout the book Christian elements surface periodically, but never as superimposed ‘preaching’. They flow organically out of the various storylines, and are subtly and appropriately handled.
While Wachter has some excellent descriptions of places, I felt her medieval fantasy world was in some respects rather generic. However the political structure is quite unique and interesting, with a hereditary monarchy balanced by an Interplanetary Council and Interplanetary Court; and there are realistic shades of grey, for instance, in the different planets’ acceptance, or otherwise, of slavery. I also liked her “skipping lines”—the wormholes between the seven planets of the Ochen system, which allow people to “skip” instantly from one to another. And she has a well worked-out system of magic, with some worlds having a “magic deficit” and others being “magic saturated”.
However, though I thoroughly enjoyed this story, there were two things that caused me some major concern. The first is what other reviewers have commented on, and that is the long-drawn-out sufferings of Rayne/Wren in the first part of the book. It’s interesting that I’m saying this, because I have children suffering in my own books, and I’ve had negative comments about that particularly from Christian readers. However, my children’s suffering is nowhere near as protracted (ten years!) as those of poor Wren. After a while I became numb: what, yet more cruelty, torture, abuse? At times it seemed to go on indefinitely. I could have done with quite a lot less of it, maybe with summary passages skipping a number of years.
I appreciate, though, that this long, dark period of the book establishes beyond a doubt the depths of misery to which this boy has been subjected, thereby making his later breakthrough into freedom that much more thrilling. But this brings up my second major concern, which other reviewers have mentioned: and that is, that the whole of the first 75% of the book builds up inexorably to his breaking free of Sigmund—leaving the last 25% as rather an anticlimax. In terms of plot structure, there’s no doubt in my mind that the book should have ended as soon as Rayne finally wins his freedom.
However, I can understand from the author’s point of view that her hero still needed to complete at least one important task crucial to the sequels; and other groundwork needed to be laid as well. The only possible solution I can think of would be to abbreviate Rayne’s suffering in the first part, so that section of the story could be completed by halfway through; then create a new, more powerful quest in the second half of the book to bring it to the required point for the rest of the series. Just a thought for the author to ponder!
That said, this is a truly great book and I can wholeheartedly recommend it to all lovers of Christian fantasy fiction.
Sigmund’s long-term purpose for Rayne/Wren is fiendishly clever: it is to train him as the ultimate killing machine, who on his 16th birthday will be sent back into the palace where he was born to kill both his parents, King Theodor and Queen Rowena. This will be “a child for a child”, as they had previously executed Sigmund’s daughter.
C. S. Wachter is a born storyteller, and the tale flows smoothly from one event to the next, carrying the reader with it. Her use of English is impeccable—as one would expect from a former professional proofreader. Her characters are well-drawn, not stereotyped, with unexpected depths revealed from time to time. The development of Wren’s character is particularly well done, as one sees the helpless child grow into a formidable young man who despite all the opposing pressures manages to cling to an inner core of selfhood and humanity, refusing to become the mindless tool Sigmund is trying to create.
Throughout the book Christian elements surface periodically, but never as superimposed ‘preaching’. They flow organically out of the various storylines, and are subtly and appropriately handled.
While Wachter has some excellent descriptions of places, I felt her medieval fantasy world was in some respects rather generic. However the political structure is quite unique and interesting, with a hereditary monarchy balanced by an Interplanetary Council and Interplanetary Court; and there are realistic shades of grey, for instance, in the different planets’ acceptance, or otherwise, of slavery. I also liked her “skipping lines”—the wormholes between the seven planets of the Ochen system, which allow people to “skip” instantly from one to another. And she has a well worked-out system of magic, with some worlds having a “magic deficit” and others being “magic saturated”.
However, though I thoroughly enjoyed this story, there were two things that caused me some major concern. The first is what other reviewers have commented on, and that is the long-drawn-out sufferings of Rayne/Wren in the first part of the book. It’s interesting that I’m saying this, because I have children suffering in my own books, and I’ve had negative comments about that particularly from Christian readers. However, my children’s suffering is nowhere near as protracted (ten years!) as those of poor Wren. After a while I became numb: what, yet more cruelty, torture, abuse? At times it seemed to go on indefinitely. I could have done with quite a lot less of it, maybe with summary passages skipping a number of years.
I appreciate, though, that this long, dark period of the book establishes beyond a doubt the depths of misery to which this boy has been subjected, thereby making his later breakthrough into freedom that much more thrilling. But this brings up my second major concern, which other reviewers have mentioned: and that is, that the whole of the first 75% of the book builds up inexorably to his breaking free of Sigmund—leaving the last 25% as rather an anticlimax. In terms of plot structure, there’s no doubt in my mind that the book should have ended as soon as Rayne finally wins his freedom.
However, I can understand from the author’s point of view that her hero still needed to complete at least one important task crucial to the sequels; and other groundwork needed to be laid as well. The only possible solution I can think of would be to abbreviate Rayne’s suffering in the first part, so that section of the story could be completed by halfway through; then create a new, more powerful quest in the second half of the book to bring it to the required point for the rest of the series. Just a thought for the author to ponder!
That said, this is a truly great book and I can wholeheartedly recommend it to all lovers of Christian fantasy fiction.
January 17, 2020
One of the best fictional novels I've read a very long time. A great new way to draw attention to the forces of good and evil in the world. The story is set in a fictional world full of evil and black magic.
The main character, the crown-prince of this imaginary world of nobility, commoners, and evil-doers, was kidnapped at an early age and raised to be an assassin. His education during the 10 years of his captivity included language, history, heraldry and religion. Religion plays an important role in the story, but is not overly done. The action in Book 1 centers around the atrocities committed to the young prince.
It took a while to get used to this genre, with characters and names foreign to what I'm used to in other fiction books I’ve read. But after the first chapter, I could not put the book down. Ms. Wachter’s vivid imagination has a way of keeping the reader’s interest going throughout the 400+ pages. The action continues in Book 2 of the series.
The main character, the crown-prince of this imaginary world of nobility, commoners, and evil-doers, was kidnapped at an early age and raised to be an assassin. His education during the 10 years of his captivity included language, history, heraldry and religion. Religion plays an important role in the story, but is not overly done. The action in Book 1 centers around the atrocities committed to the young prince.
It took a while to get used to this genre, with characters and names foreign to what I'm used to in other fiction books I’ve read. But after the first chapter, I could not put the book down. Ms. Wachter’s vivid imagination has a way of keeping the reader’s interest going throughout the 400+ pages. The action continues in Book 2 of the series.
April 22, 2020
Outstanding
A must read if you love God and fantasy. C. S. Wachter now we the two together in a compelling and outstanding way. I can't wait to dive into the next book in the series.
A must read if you love God and fantasy. C. S. Wachter now we the two together in a compelling and outstanding way. I can't wait to dive into the next book in the series.
April 21, 2018
Overall Reaction: This book is as heartwarming as it is heart-wrenching as it follows the story of Rayne/Wren. I cringed as I read the diabolical actions of Sigmund, Ponce and Coronus, but celebrated the bravery of Warren and Anne. C.S. Watcher's heartfelt story engrossed me from the beginning and kept me reading the emotional up's and down's until I reached the dramatic conclusion.
Characters:
Rayne "Wren" Kierkengaard: The main narrator and central character of Sorcerer's Bane. His character arc is reason alone to read this story. As he deals with the darkness within and outside, I was drawn to his tragedy and triumph throughout the book.
Sigmund: The evil sorcerer whose intent on vengeance fuels the plot. He is not your average antagonist and his actions are carefully and thoughtfully planned. His reasoning is as logical as sin for his actions, which makes him a fascinating villain. He is not your average Straw Man type of villain that you find in many ways.
Warren: This intellectual is one character who reminds me of Paul from the Bible. Persecuted and imprisoned, he relies on the One (God) to guide him as he influences Rayne/Wren as a godly mentor and father.
Ponce and Coronus: Even though they are two separate characters with unique traits, they both have similar goals-feeding the darkness within Wren/Rayne. Ponce feeds Wren/Rayne's darkness by drinking his blood-ick!-and instilling his own darkness within the boy. Coronus uses inhumane methods to turn Wren into a boy with blood on his hands.
Anne: The female healer whose compassion and strength are testaments to the true character of Christian women. She does her best to stand against a tide of evil by winning the trust of others with sacrificial love and service. Her presence in the book is a soothing balm-literally and figuratively-to readers and Wren/Rayne himself.
There were other characters featured throughout the book-Rowena and Theodor, Rayne's parents, Thorvin, Stevie and Sashi etc. However, I didn't feel as attached to them as I did the characters mentioned above.
Plot:
I felt like there were two stories within this book. One story revolves around Rayne's inner & outer struggle with darkness. The other story revolves around Rayne's recovery from that struggle. I enjoyed both and I think both came to good conclusions, but I wonder if it was necessary to include the second story when the second could be another book in and of itself. Yet, I also see why C.S. Watcher included the second story, since she has a plan for a series and Rayne needs to be at a certain point emotionally to face the problems of the next book. Logically, I understand this, but emotionally I wish I had as much time to process the second story as the first story. Because of this, I am conflicted by the two plots within the novel.
Setting:
C.S. Watcher's worlds, landscapes and towns are all that a fantasy reader wants in a book. She has detailed maps of the planets at the beginning of the book and then extensive descriptions of their governing systems. I think the best part of her setting was her description of food which made me literally want to taste one of Al's pastries (when you read the book, you'll know what I mean by that).
Characters:
Rayne "Wren" Kierkengaard: The main narrator and central character of Sorcerer's Bane. His character arc is reason alone to read this story. As he deals with the darkness within and outside, I was drawn to his tragedy and triumph throughout the book.
Sigmund: The evil sorcerer whose intent on vengeance fuels the plot. He is not your average antagonist and his actions are carefully and thoughtfully planned. His reasoning is as logical as sin for his actions, which makes him a fascinating villain. He is not your average Straw Man type of villain that you find in many ways.
Warren: This intellectual is one character who reminds me of Paul from the Bible. Persecuted and imprisoned, he relies on the One (God) to guide him as he influences Rayne/Wren as a godly mentor and father.
Ponce and Coronus: Even though they are two separate characters with unique traits, they both have similar goals-feeding the darkness within Wren/Rayne. Ponce feeds Wren/Rayne's darkness by drinking his blood-ick!-and instilling his own darkness within the boy. Coronus uses inhumane methods to turn Wren into a boy with blood on his hands.
Anne: The female healer whose compassion and strength are testaments to the true character of Christian women. She does her best to stand against a tide of evil by winning the trust of others with sacrificial love and service. Her presence in the book is a soothing balm-literally and figuratively-to readers and Wren/Rayne himself.
There were other characters featured throughout the book-Rowena and Theodor, Rayne's parents, Thorvin, Stevie and Sashi etc. However, I didn't feel as attached to them as I did the characters mentioned above.
Plot:
I felt like there were two stories within this book. One story revolves around Rayne's inner & outer struggle with darkness. The other story revolves around Rayne's recovery from that struggle. I enjoyed both and I think both came to good conclusions, but I wonder if it was necessary to include the second story when the second could be another book in and of itself. Yet, I also see why C.S. Watcher included the second story, since she has a plan for a series and Rayne needs to be at a certain point emotionally to face the problems of the next book. Logically, I understand this, but emotionally I wish I had as much time to process the second story as the first story. Because of this, I am conflicted by the two plots within the novel.
Setting:
C.S. Watcher's worlds, landscapes and towns are all that a fantasy reader wants in a book. She has detailed maps of the planets at the beginning of the book and then extensive descriptions of their governing systems. I think the best part of her setting was her description of food which made me literally want to taste one of Al's pastries (when you read the book, you'll know what I mean by that).
April 7, 2018
The Sorceror's Bane is an enthralling, action-packed read. And I use enthral in both senses of the word. This first novel in a planned series of four books follows young Prince Rayne through his kidnapping and enslavement at six and his journey to becoming a master assassin.
The fact that I read this in one sitting says a lot. And no, this isn't a quick 2-hour light read. It was one of those sprawling life epics--okay, that's a bit of an exaggeration--that take up like 5 or so hours of your time. I legit started reading during late dinner at 9 pm (duh, because you need to read something while you eat alone, right?) and finished at almost 3 am, because I am an idiot that way.
Good versus Evil, Light versus Dark
At its core, The Sorceror's Bane is a sword and sorcery tale of Good versus Evil. In the vein of fantasy epics such as Eddings' Belgariad and Gemmell's Legend, Wachter utilises prophecies and faith to spur the actions of her heroes, even when a subconscious action on their part.
The Sorceror's Bane holds echoes of Wachter's Christian faith. There is a single god known as the One that rules over this universe, represented by the light. There is an evil, or a darkness, that opposes the One and his believers, embodied by Sigmund. There are seven scrolls, or prophecies, to each of the seven worlds in Ochen, reminiscent of the words of the Lord to the seven churches in the book of Revelations.
Unexpectedly hopeful
Wachter is masterful at pulling at your heartstrings. Just as soon as you see a glimmer of light for our poor young protagonist, just as soon as you think things will not get worse, Wachter breaks your heart as Sigmund and his evil cohorts find new ways to break Rayne's spirit over and over again. Yet threaded subtly through all this darkness, Wachter manages to always leave the reader with a glimmer of hope--whether via Rayne himself or through his friends Anne and Warren--reminding you that although evil abounds, the One is in control.
I'm really looking forward to reading the rest of this series and I hope it doesn't take too long to come out!
The fact that I read this in one sitting says a lot. And no, this isn't a quick 2-hour light read. It was one of those sprawling life epics--okay, that's a bit of an exaggeration--that take up like 5 or so hours of your time. I legit started reading during late dinner at 9 pm (duh, because you need to read something while you eat alone, right?) and finished at almost 3 am, because I am an idiot that way.
Good versus Evil, Light versus Dark
At its core, The Sorceror's Bane is a sword and sorcery tale of Good versus Evil. In the vein of fantasy epics such as Eddings' Belgariad and Gemmell's Legend, Wachter utilises prophecies and faith to spur the actions of her heroes, even when a subconscious action on their part.
The Sorceror's Bane holds echoes of Wachter's Christian faith. There is a single god known as the One that rules over this universe, represented by the light. There is an evil, or a darkness, that opposes the One and his believers, embodied by Sigmund. There are seven scrolls, or prophecies, to each of the seven worlds in Ochen, reminiscent of the words of the Lord to the seven churches in the book of Revelations.
Unexpectedly hopeful
Wachter is masterful at pulling at your heartstrings. Just as soon as you see a glimmer of light for our poor young protagonist, just as soon as you think things will not get worse, Wachter breaks your heart as Sigmund and his evil cohorts find new ways to break Rayne's spirit over and over again. Yet threaded subtly through all this darkness, Wachter manages to always leave the reader with a glimmer of hope--whether via Rayne himself or through his friends Anne and Warren--reminding you that although evil abounds, the One is in control.
I'm really looking forward to reading the rest of this series and I hope it doesn't take too long to come out!
July 12, 2018
This story is about a boy caught in the middle of a battle for vengeance. It's about darkness trying to overcome light. It's about the devil hating God and his continued desire to be Him.
I had to skip past a lot of the description of the evil done to the boy, it was just too creepy. As they tried to turn him to darkness and snuff out the goodness and light in him Rayne/Wren fought to keep that kernel of rebellion alive. The One didn't leave him to his own efforts though, He gave him Anne and Warren to teach him of the One and to love him.
When the time came for Wren to perform his ultimate assassination, he had to decide if he could trust the One completely and surrender, pull down his walls, something he had never done before.
I can't say this is a clean read even though there is no cussing, there are insinuations of sexual abuse and very dark behavior.
I had to skip past a lot of the description of the evil done to the boy, it was just too creepy. As they tried to turn him to darkness and snuff out the goodness and light in him Rayne/Wren fought to keep that kernel of rebellion alive. The One didn't leave him to his own efforts though, He gave him Anne and Warren to teach him of the One and to love him.
When the time came for Wren to perform his ultimate assassination, he had to decide if he could trust the One completely and surrender, pull down his walls, something he had never done before.
I can't say this is a clean read even though there is no cussing, there are insinuations of sexual abuse and very dark behavior.
February 5, 2019
I loved this book by C. S. Wachter. We follow the story of this poor boy, who, through no fault of his own, is kidnapped, made mute, and has his memory stored away all because of some sadistic so and so's plot of revenge. My heart kept wrenching for him.
Poor Wren goes through terrible things as he grows up. At one point, I remember thinking, something GOOD has to happen to this boy because it can't stay forever like this. And it did, right at the point where you needed it to. Wachter does a fantastic twisting our emotions in our gut. The darkness of this book is not explicit, which makes it that much more heartfelt. Throughout the book, I kept thinking, none of this is Wren's fault. But at the same time, I kept wanting to see if he would survive through it all.
A wonderful story and I've got the next two. I can't wait to see what happens next.
Poor Wren goes through terrible things as he grows up. At one point, I remember thinking, something GOOD has to happen to this boy because it can't stay forever like this. And it did, right at the point where you needed it to. Wachter does a fantastic twisting our emotions in our gut. The darkness of this book is not explicit, which makes it that much more heartfelt. Throughout the book, I kept thinking, none of this is Wren's fault. But at the same time, I kept wanting to see if he would survive through it all.
A wonderful story and I've got the next two. I can't wait to see what happens next.
August 28, 2020
Kidnapped as a young child, Prince Rayne’s memory is stolen from him and he is sold as a slave into a life so wretched even Lemmony Snickett would have had trouble thinking up a worse circumstance. It sounds like a plot from a secular noir novel, but it’s not. It’s a Christian fantasy that tackles the hard and very real evils of human trafficking, abuse, and psychological torture—among others. Spoiler alert: it also tackles the issues of forgiveness and other aspects involved with recovering from such abuses.
Christian readers may be concerned with how this book starts out. The first few chapters are very dark, dealing with very evil subject matter. But the depth of the book, and the spiritual messages that come through in the end, are based on these few, unpleasant-but-necessary chapters. While the author practiced discretion in describing the depravity of the world her hero fell into, I can understand that this kind of work will never please all readers—even in the Christian market. Fans of Amish romance and “Clean” fiction are not going to want to slog through the pages that (albeit tactfully) depict dark acts of abuse and evil. On the other hand, readers who have had a brush—or more than a brush—with this evil in real life may praise this book for its accuracy and the hope it offers to those who are still suffering. Furthermore, those who are aware of this kind of injustice in their own lives would also do well to read this book—if not for anything more than the challenge to do something about the horrors they are allowing with their silence.
Now, as a writer, I should probably put a few notes into my review for the sake of constructive criticism. Foremost, this book needs some good editing—at least a thorough search for comma placement and other punctuation fixes. Second, this book was longer than it needed to be. I understand that the deeper message is being sent to people who have experienced this kind of abuse in real life but most readers (who are going to carry this book to those who need to read it) are not going to like slogging through pages of internal monologues and brooding. This may drive away readers who do not need to hear the message, but that, in turn, will never get the message to the readers who need to hear it.
Also, I could not help but note that this book should have been broken up into two parts. A table of contents that simply lists 60+ chapters with no further breakdown is intimidating—especially when the first couple dozen chapters are so grim. Stating that there was a “part II” halfway through would have been much more encouraging to me as a reader. And finally, the writing style changed halfway through. We go from internal brooding and monologues of suffering to long, friendly conversations that suddenly felt out of place even though they were not.
All in all, this is a powerful book that left me contemplating the message long after I finished it—and it has made me eager to begin reading the next book in the series.
Christian readers may be concerned with how this book starts out. The first few chapters are very dark, dealing with very evil subject matter. But the depth of the book, and the spiritual messages that come through in the end, are based on these few, unpleasant-but-necessary chapters. While the author practiced discretion in describing the depravity of the world her hero fell into, I can understand that this kind of work will never please all readers—even in the Christian market. Fans of Amish romance and “Clean” fiction are not going to want to slog through the pages that (albeit tactfully) depict dark acts of abuse and evil. On the other hand, readers who have had a brush—or more than a brush—with this evil in real life may praise this book for its accuracy and the hope it offers to those who are still suffering. Furthermore, those who are aware of this kind of injustice in their own lives would also do well to read this book—if not for anything more than the challenge to do something about the horrors they are allowing with their silence.
Now, as a writer, I should probably put a few notes into my review for the sake of constructive criticism. Foremost, this book needs some good editing—at least a thorough search for comma placement and other punctuation fixes. Second, this book was longer than it needed to be. I understand that the deeper message is being sent to people who have experienced this kind of abuse in real life but most readers (who are going to carry this book to those who need to read it) are not going to like slogging through pages of internal monologues and brooding. This may drive away readers who do not need to hear the message, but that, in turn, will never get the message to the readers who need to hear it.
Also, I could not help but note that this book should have been broken up into two parts. A table of contents that simply lists 60+ chapters with no further breakdown is intimidating—especially when the first couple dozen chapters are so grim. Stating that there was a “part II” halfway through would have been much more encouraging to me as a reader. And finally, the writing style changed halfway through. We go from internal brooding and monologues of suffering to long, friendly conversations that suddenly felt out of place even though they were not.
All in all, this is a powerful book that left me contemplating the message long after I finished it—and it has made me eager to begin reading the next book in the series.
April 5, 2018
First off to start this book is just literal wow! I have not read a book this captivating and all consuming for at least 5 years and I’m a very avid book reader and writer. I must say this book gripped me from Rayne’s first struggle to every struggle in between. You can feel the pain he goes through it is that good! The world building and character depth for this book is phenomenal!! Rayne as a character is just all captiviting to his personality to his struggles. The world even though we have only seen corylus and hints of the other worlds through the use of the skipping lines, the worlds are full of depth life and magic.
I’m a firm Christian believer and now saying that I have been addicted to the house of night series for a solid 8 years I have read all of the books at least ten times and own them all in hard copy, I drove 2 hours to meet the authors and waited another 4 just so I could meet them then had another two hour drive home. Now saying this I must say I would drive double this to meet C.S. Wachter but I don’t have to because she is a local author and a wonderful person I love to talk to on a weekly basis. She has captivated me and hooked me on a very amazing book that has stolen my heart!!! She has a talent unlike I have ever seen and I have to say this book is my new favorite book!
I will be rereading this many times, I wasn’t sure I was going to like it as this type of plot normally isn’t my favorite but I’m an avid fantasy book reader and so I purchased this book and got it signed by C.S. Wachter and I must say it’s one of those books that as I like to say takes you on an extreme rollercoaster!!! I’m the type if a book rips my heart out that means it is well written and worth every memory just to read it and this book is that type of book! I can not wait until I can read the next one in the series!!! Thank you, C.S. Wachter for your wonderfully amazing phenomenal book! You have such a talent!
I’m a firm Christian believer and now saying that I have been addicted to the house of night series for a solid 8 years I have read all of the books at least ten times and own them all in hard copy, I drove 2 hours to meet the authors and waited another 4 just so I could meet them then had another two hour drive home. Now saying this I must say I would drive double this to meet C.S. Wachter but I don’t have to because she is a local author and a wonderful person I love to talk to on a weekly basis. She has captivated me and hooked me on a very amazing book that has stolen my heart!!! She has a talent unlike I have ever seen and I have to say this book is my new favorite book!
I will be rereading this many times, I wasn’t sure I was going to like it as this type of plot normally isn’t my favorite but I’m an avid fantasy book reader and so I purchased this book and got it signed by C.S. Wachter and I must say it’s one of those books that as I like to say takes you on an extreme rollercoaster!!! I’m the type if a book rips my heart out that means it is well written and worth every memory just to read it and this book is that type of book! I can not wait until I can read the next one in the series!!! Thank you, C.S. Wachter for your wonderfully amazing phenomenal book! You have such a talent!
November 19, 2019
Christine Wachter has created a world that is filled with magic, characters you will love, characters you will hate, oppressive darkness, and healing light. Sorcorer's Bane is the first book of a series of 4 planned books. While the theme is Christian-based, Wachter does not proselytize. The story is set in the universe of Ochen, with classic characters of good (The One) and evil (personified in Sigmund). The protaganist is a young prince named Rayne who is kidnapped, enslaved, tortured, and trained to be a master assassin (you must read the book to learn the target). On his journey, Rayne's captor changes his name to Wren and proceeds to inflict horrors on him that one would never think anyone, much less a young child, could survive. Yet, Rayne/Wren does survive and thrive with the help of kind and caring people who are also enslaved by the evil Sigmund, as well as, his internal strength. Ochen is filled with characters whose pain will make you feel dark, whose kindness and love will tug at your heartstrings, and whose vicousness will move you to want to exact revenge. Ochen is a universe with teleportation, psychokenesis, and mind projection. It has political intrigue, despair, betrayal, revenge, kindness, forgiveness, love, hope. Wachter has introduced a world that has captured my imagination not unlike the way Harry Potter, Lord of the Rings, and The Hobbit did. Do youself a favor. Read The Sorcerer's Bane. Better yet, buy several copies and give them as Christmas gifts.
April 13, 2018
The Sorcerer's Bane (The Seven Words Book 1)by C.S. Wachter starts out quite dark with Rayne/Wren's capture, torture, and training as an assassin, but we then get to see the power of the "One" as redemption is worked out in his life. It is obviously part of a series so it has a bit of an open ending, but not a horrible cliff-hanger. This book reminds me a lot of R.A.Salvator's Homeland except there is a Christian hope underneath Rayne/Wren's strength. The inter-planetary worlds with a medieval culture is both fun and interesting. The villains are truly horrible and the heroes are very good. Still, there are plenty of characters who are trying to figure out which side their loyalties belong. A true Christian fantasy fiction book and I look forward to reading the next in the series.
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